Definition

Justification

1

Creation of new combinations of existing resources

Schumpeter recognized the importance of innovation in the 1930s

2

Implementation of a new or significantly improved product (good/service) or process (method/practice/relationship)

International guidelines for proposed definition

3

Innovation is the creation and implementation of new processes, products, services and methods of delivery which result in significant improvements in outcomes, efficiency, effectiveness or quality

A widening of the definition

4

The successful exploitation of new ideas or ones that are adopted from other sectors or organizations’

The UK government’s definition of innovation

5

Creation and application of good ideas

Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) definition

6

A continuous and dynamic process in which ideas are transformed into value

This definition includes value as a part of innovation

7

The successful introduction of new services, products, processes, business models and ways of working

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) includes business models and ways of working in the definition

8

The development (generation) and/or use (adaption) of new ideas or behaviors

This definition includes behaviors as well as ideas

9

The introduction of new elements into a service―new knowledge, new organization, new management/skills

This definition focuses on the new within a service

10

Innovations are in a significant way new and disruptive towards the routines and structures prevailing

This definition views innovation as affecting the external environment

11

Innovation is the process by which new ideas turn into practical value in the world

This definition focuses on the practical application of ideas